The Englefield Green Child Contact Centre (RM)

Support Children and Families as a Volunteer at Englefield Green Child Contact Centre

Would you like to help children rebuild and maintain important family relationships in a safe, welcoming space? Englefield Green Child Contact Centre is looking for compassionate, reliable volunteers to support children spending time with family members they are otherwise estranged from.

Our Contact Centre provides a neutral, child-focused environment that enables children to safely reconnect with parents, grandparents or other relatives when direct contact has been disrupted.

About the role:

As a volunteer, you’ll be part of a small, dedicated team helping to run our Contact Centre sessions on the first and third Saturday of each month. Once trained, you’ll be expected to commit to two sessions every three months ideally but there is flexibility. Sessions take place from 2–4pm, with volunteers attending from 1.15–4.30pm to help with setup and close down.

Your role will involve:

• Creating a calm and supportive environment for children and their family member
• Welcoming families and ensuring sessions run smoothly
• Being observant and discreet, providing support without interfering
• Ensuring a safe, neutral space where contact can happen positively
• Working as part of a volunteer team to ensure safeguarding procedures are followed

All volunteers receive training and must undergo a DBS check. No previous experience is required – just a caring attitude, good communication skills, and a willingness to support families during what can be a difficult time.

What skills do I need?

This role is ideal for anyone who enjoys working with people and has a calm, non-judgemental presence. You’ll develop or use:

• Empathy and understanding – helping families in sensitive situations
  
• Teamwork – working with other volunteers to ensure sessions run smoothly
  
• Observation and awareness – ensuring a safe and supportive environment
  
• Emotional resilience – remaining professional and composed during emotional situations
  
• Confidentiality and discretion – respecting the privacy and dignity of all families

You’ll be making a direct, meaningful difference to children and families during challenging periods in their lives.